In October of 2018, the World Surf League received approval for a Coastal Development Permit by the California Coastal Commission and in November 2018, the California State Lands Commission granted a five-year lease to hold the Mavericks Challenge. Conditions of both agencies was to allow for equal pay for both men and women athletes. The surf window begins November 1, 2018 - March 31, 2019.

The World Surf League purchased the San Mateo County Harbor District's Special Use Permit, formerly held by Cartel Management, in a bankruptcy auction through an asset purchase agreement in 2017.